A GROUP OF SIX MINIATURE ‘BIXIE’ TIANHUANG SEALS QING DYNASTY

comprising seals of square and rectangular sections all with unmarked seal faces, the tops each deftly picked out with an intricate and distinct bixie, some reticulated with the mythical beast seated on hind haunches, raising a horned head with mouth agape, another with forepaws resting atop its coiled body, the largest seal surmounted by two confronting beasts detailed with slender bodies and heads turned to face each other, the smooth stones ranging in colour from golden honey to a deeper caramel colour, wood box

The seals are in overall good condition with faint surface wear and expected minor bruises and minute nicks to the extremities, some of them slightly polished, particularly to the edges and corners of the seals. The widest seal is inscribed "20" to the corner of the seal face. The catalogue illustration is slightly redder than the actual colour of the stones.
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

The wood box is further enclosed in a fabric-lined box inscribed with the date Shōwa dingmao corresponding to 1927 and dan shan zhenbao ('Treasures of Red Mountain').